Archive By Section - Local News

Earlier this month, the San Joaquin Farm Bureau Federation (SJFBF) announced its endorsement of farmer and former County Supervisor Ken Vogel for the 12th Assembly District that covers portions of Stanislaus and San Joaquin counties. The seat is currently held by Assemblywoman Kristin Olsen of Modesto.

Steve Knell, General Manager of the Oakdale Irrigation District called the state water board's attempt to restrict century-old water rights "a complete waste of time" Wednesday after the state partially rescinded thousands of curtailment orders.

Somewhat mild temperatures following a temporary heat wave were a welcome surprise for organizers and attendees on Friday, July 10 as the first day for the Stanislaus County Fair. The annual event continues through Sunday, July 19. Carnival hours are 5 p.m. to midnight, Monday through Friday and noon to midnight Saturday and Sunday.

After receiving kudos by the Stanislaus Grand Jury weeks ago for its operation of the Oakdale Airport, the city is now being denounced by the Federal Aviation Administration for its non-compliance with FAA assurances and not operating in a manner consistent with the federal obligations, according to a letter obtained by The Leader.

The City of Oakdale has received a directive from a division of the California Environmental Protection Agency to halt further construction to the Valley View Park Trail pending a site investigation plan.

Across the state, city established business improvement districts (BID) use public money to support the economic growth of small business communities, playing a significant role in a city such as Oakdale that's cut back on many basic services.

Legislation by Assembly Republican Leader Kristin Olsen, of Modesto, to allow the use of electrically-motorized skateboards in California was approved by the Senate on Thursday, July 9 on a bipartisan vote.

Matthew and Courtney Smith subscribe to the notion that if you do what you love, you never work a day in your life. This may prove to be a good thing as the young couple moves forward with building the business of their Lucky #19 Ranch, its Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) division, their recent opportunity to operate Bloomingcamp Ranch and the launching of their Farm to Table monthly events.

With the transient population growing in the city and the associated problems becoming more noticeable, the Oakdale City Council on Monday, July 6 proposed a city ordinance prohibiting the searching of waste containers, otherwise known as "dumpster diving."

Assembly Republican Leader Kristin Olsen, of Modesto, honored Army National Guard Capt. Cynthia Jones as the 2015 Veteran of the Year for the 12th Assembly District. Capt. Jones is currently serving as the Company Commander for the Chinook Unit in Stockton, Bravo Company, 1-126th Aviation Regiment – and is the first woman to serve in this capacity.